What is neurofeedback and how does it work?

Neurofeedback

Definition, Benefits & Process

Key Points at a Glance

Neurofeedback measures brain activity using EEG and provides real-time feedback through visuals, sound or vibration.
There are different neurofeedback approaches, including traditional frequency-band neurofeedback and ILF neurofeedback, which is individually tailored to the symptoms of the person being treated.
BEE Medic provides training in ILF neurofeedback to medical and therapeutic professionals, either directly or through authorised training partners, depending on the region.

Would you like to know whether neurofeedback is suitable for your practice? In this article, we explain how neurofeedback works, what makes the ILF method special and how a session is conducted. This will help you decide whether training with BEE Medic is right for you.

What is neurofeedback therapy?

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, computer-assisted procedure in which the brain's electrical activity is measured using EEG and fed back to the person in real time. For example, the person watches a film or animation while elements of the image and sound change in response to the measured brain activity. Neurofeedback works much like a mirror for the brain. The person receives feedback on their own brain activity and can learn to modify it.

There are different neurofeedback methods, which differ in terms of which aspects of brain activity are used for feedback and which training objectives are pursued. Neurofeedback is predominantly used in a therapeutic context, but increasingly also in peak performance training. A study published in 2026 found measurable changes in functional brain connectivity following a single session of ILF neurofeedback.

How does neurofeedback therapy work?

During neurofeedback, electrodes are attached to the scalp to record EEG signals. These signals are processed and result in changes to the image and sound of an animation, film or game. Feedback can also be provided via a tactile feedback device.

The feedback continuously adapts to the measured brain activity. Depending on the signal, this may change:

The speed at which elements of an animation move
The brightness of the image
The volume of sounds
The intensity of vibration from a tactile feedback device

The electrodes are used exclusively for measurement. No electrical current is passed into the brain.

Illustration showing how neurofeedback works: diagram of patient with EEG sensors and screen connected to therapist monitoring setup

Patient with attached neurofeedback electrodes talking to therapist during a consultation

What are the benefits of neurofeedback?

Depending on the method used, neurofeedback can be used to train attention and concentration, specific patterns of EEG activity or regulatory processes of the central nervous system.

EEG neurofeedback makes selected aspects of brain activity directly available for training. The intended outcome depends on the specific neurofeedback approach and the individual's treatment goals.

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ILF Neurofeedback vs Frequency Band Training

What is ILF Neurofeedback

BEE Medic specialises in Infra-Low-Frequency neurofeedback, or ILF neurofeedback for short. ILF neurofeedback has evolved from traditional frequency-band neurofeedback and incorporates both frequency-band components and very slow EEG activity (infra-low frequencies below 0.01 Hz) into the feedback. These very slow frequencies do not influence momentary arousal, but rather the brain's underlying excitability.

ILF neurofeedback focuses on the central nervous system's capacity for self-regulation. The training parameters are individually tailored to the person being treated. For example, electrode placements may vary, as well as the order and duration of training in specific brain regions and the individual training frequency. These parameters are determined by the person's symptoms and their responses during training and in the days that follow. You can learn how ILF neurofeedback is individually tailored to the person being treated in our five-day basic course.

What makes ILF neurofeedback special is that it works on a subconscious level and requires no active effort. The person undergoing treatment does not need to consciously try to change their own state or deliberately control the feedback.

A study published in 2026 in NeuroImage by de Matos et al., involving 135 healthy participants, demonstrated statistically significant changes in the functional connectivity of brain networks after just one session using the complete ILF neurofeedback protocol.

What is frequency-band neurofeedback?

Frequency-band neurofeedback, also known as classical neurofeedback, involves training specific frequency ranges of EEG activity. Activity in different frequency ranges or bands is associated with different states of activation and arousal in the brain.

For example, if the brain predominantly produces so-called SMR waves in the frequency range of 12 to 15 Hz, the person is physically relaxed while remaining focused and alert. Through operant conditioning, the brain is encouraged to produce more of these waves, thereby altering the person's state of arousal. Depending on the training objective, activity within selected frequency bands is fed back and specifically targeted for training.

BEE Medic's systems support both frequency-band and ILF neurofeedback.

Elderly patient with EEG electrodes on his head during a neurofeedback therapy session with a therapist in front of a screen

Therapist attaching EEG electrodes to a young girl with a NeuroAmp 2 device visible on the table

What is ILF Neurofeedback

What is frequency-band neurofeedback?

Close-up of a therapist taking notes on a notepad during a neurofeedback consultation with a patient

Areas of Application: Where Is ILF Neurofeedback Used?

As ILF neurofeedback aims to improve the brain's capacity for self-regulation, it has a broad range of applications in healthcare. It can therefore be used for a variety of conditions. Among others, practitioners report positive effects when ILF neurofeedback is used as a complementary treatment for:

•ADHD

•Epilepsy

•Anxiety disorders

•Depression

•Sleep disorders

•Migraine

•Tinnitus

•Autism spectrum disorders

•Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Whether neurofeedback is suitable in an individual case should be assessed by appropriately qualified professionals.

How Does an ILF Neurofeedback Session Work?

Before the first session, an initial consultation takes place to review the patient's medical history. Based on this, the therapist determines the individual training protocol for the first session.
At the start of the ILF neurofeedback session, electrodes are attached to the scalp using a conductive paste.
During training, the person watches an animation or film, or plays a game on a screen.
At the same time, brain activity is continuously measured using EEG, transmitted to the Cygnet software, processed and converted into audiovisual feedback in real time. The feedback is provided through changes in the image and sound of the film, animation or game. A tactile feedback device may also be used. This provides the person with immediate feedback on their own brain activity.
After training, the electrodes are removed and the conductive paste is gently cleaned from the hair using an alcohol-based solution.
At the next session, the therapist discusses any changes in symptoms since the previous session and may adjust the training accordingly.

A neurofeedback session usually lasts around 45 minutes, including the discussion before and after training. The number of sessions recommended depends on the individual's circumstances, treatment goals and progress.

Neurofeedback therapy session: EEG electrodes on the scalp, feedback animation on screen

What Are the Benefits of ILF Neurofeedback?

Non-invasive and requiring no active effort

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive procedure. With ILF neurofeedback, patients do not need to actively try to influence their brain activity or apply specific strategies. The training does not require conscious control of the feedback, as it takes place at a subconscious level.

Individually tailored

ILF neurofeedback training is individually tailored to the person being treated. Training parameters are selected based on symptoms and responses during and after training, and are adjusted throughout the course of treatment.

Easily integrated into everyday therapeutic practice

ILF neurofeedback was developed for use in therapeutic practice. Our protocols have been refined and verified through many years of practical experience. The systems are intuitive for therapists to use and require no prior technical knowledge. This allows ILF neurofeedback to be integrated into therapeutic practice with minimal additional effort.

Suitable for complex treatment situations

ILF neurofeedback is also used in clinical practice with patients for whom other therapeutic approaches have reached their limits. Practitioners frequently report progress that may open up further therapeutic possibilities.

What Are the Limitations and Side Effects of Neurofeedback Therapy?

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive procedure that is generally well tolerated when applied correctly. Nevertheless, adverse reactions may occur. The method is also not equally suitable for every person or every condition.

Does neurofeedback have side effects?

Neurofeedback may cause temporary side effects such as tiredness, headaches, restlessness, irritability or changes in sleep patterns. Whether these reactions occur and how severe they are varies depending on the individual and the training method.

Any adverse reactions should be discussed with the treating professional. Training parameters, session duration or training frequency can then be adjusted.

What are the limitations of neurofeedback?

Not everyone responds to neurofeedback in the same way. Whether symptoms improve, and to what extent, depends on factors including the individual's condition, the method used and other influencing factors.

Furthermore, not all areas of application have been investigated to the same extent. Controlled neurofeedback studies are available for some applications, while sufficiently robust findings are still lacking for others.

Neurofeedback should therefore always be used as part of an individual therapeutic assessment. It can complement existing treatment approaches but does not necessarily replace medical or psychotherapeutic treatment.

Is Neurofeedback Scientifically Supported? Current State of Research

Neurofeedback has been scientifically investigated for many decades. Research examines both clinical applications and the neurophysiological mechanisms of different neurofeedback approaches.

The evidence base for neurofeedback varies depending on the method and area of application. It is therefore important to interpret scientific findings in the context of the specific neurofeedback method being investigated.

A selection of scientific publications covering different areas of application can be found in our neurofeedback studies overview.

Studie Overview

Close-up of therapist's hands carefully placing EEG electrodes on a young woman's head for neurofeedback training

What Is the Difference Between Neurofeedback and Biofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a specific form of biofeedback.

In biofeedback, physiological functions are measured and fed back in real time. Examples include heart rate and heart rate variability, respiration, muscle activity, skin conductance and temperature. In neurofeedback, the brain's electrical activity is recorded using EEG and used to generate feedback.

Both neurofeedback and other biofeedback methods are therefore based on the same principle: physiological signals are measured, processed and fed back immediately. The signals used, the type of feedback and the training objectives depend on the specific method.

BEE Medic offers both neurofeedback and biofeedback systems for use in therapeutic practice.

Neurofeedback and Other Biofeedback Methods Compared
Feature	Neurofeedback	Other Biofeedback Methods
Signal Measured	Brain activity	Physiological functions such as heart activity, muscle activity, respiration or skin conductance
Sensors	Usually EEG electrodes placed on the scalp	ECG electrodes, EMG electrodes, respiration sensors, skin conductance sensors
Example parameters	EEG frequency bands, infra-low-frequency (ILF) activity, slow cortical potentials (SCP)	Heart rate variability (HRV), muscle activity (EMG), respiratory rate, skin conductance, skin temperature
Training objective	Self-regulation of specific aspects of brain activity	Self-regulation of the physiological functions being measured
Training principle	Feedback on brain activity, depending on the method, without necessarily requiring conscious control strategies	Feedback on physiological signals, often combined with conscious regulation strategies

Frequently Asked Questions About Neurofeedback

1. Where can neurofeedback be used?

Neurofeedback is primarily used in therapeutic settings, but it is also applied outside the treatment of medical conditions, for example in peak performance training.

2. How long does a neurofeedback session last?

A neurofeedback session usually lasts around 45 minutes. This includes the discussion before and after training, attaching the electrodes, the training itself and removing the electrodes.

3. How many neurofeedback sessions are needed?

A course of neurofeedback therapy usually involves 20 to 30 sessions, ideally once or twice a week. The exact number depends on the individual's circumstances, treatment goals and progress. A break is often recommended afterwards to assess whether any symptoms remain. Further sessions may then be appropriate. For some conditions, ongoing treatment without extended breaks may be necessary.

4. What does neurofeedback measure?

Neurofeedback measures the brain's electrical activity using EEG. Software processes the EEG signals and converts them into real-time feedback through visuals, sound or vibration.

5. Does neurofeedback hurt?

No, neurofeedback is painless because it only measures brain activity. The method is non-invasive and no electrical current is passed into the brain.

6. What are the requirements for purchasing BEE Medic devices?

To purchase our neurofeedback devices, you must first complete a basic course with BEE Medic or an authorised training partner. This ensures that the systems are used competently and safely. Our neurofeedback courses are intended for professionals with a medical or therapeutic background. If you would like to learn more about neurofeedback before committing to training, a free webinar is a good place to start.

Did You Know?

The development of ILF neurofeedback is largely based on the clinical work of Siegfried and Susan Othmer. Bernhard Wandernoth, the founder of BEE Medic, has worked closely with them since 2004. He founded BEE Medic in 2005 and has contributed to the technological development of the approach through specialised EEG amplifiers and the Cygnet neurofeedback software.

Learn more

Therapist working at a computer monitor to configure and analyze neurofeedback software data

Start Your ILF Neurofeedback Training with BEE Medic

ILF neurofeedback requires sound specialist knowledge. BEE Medic's training is therefore intended for professionals with a medical or therapeutic background, including occupational therapists, psychologists, psychotherapists, medical doctors, psychiatrists, neurologists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, and alternative practitioners.

For applicants with other professional qualifications, we assess eligibility on an individual basis. Supporting documentation may be required.

Our courses provide the theoretical foundations and practical skills needed for the professional application of neurofeedback.

Entry requirements and course offerings vary by region. Depending on the location, courses are provided by BEE Medic or authorised training partners. You can find all available dates in our course overview.

Find out more about our neurofeedback training.